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Products Finishing Top Shops Benchmarking Survey

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3 Jan 2025 40-under-40
Celebrating Surface Finishing
Products Finishing looks ahead to 2025 programs to recognize and inspire the industry.

23 Dec 2024 Liquid Coating
The Real Coatings Delivery Problems
Liquid delivery systems can have a lack of agitation, too much agitation, no coatings temperature control, and no coatings circulation. Read Sames’ Steve Romer’s solutions for these problems in this Liquid Clinic.

15 Jan 2025 Ask The Expert
Preparing for Potential Supply Chain Disruptions
Supply chain disruptions are inevitable. Therefore, planning for them is a smart tactic for manufacturing business owners.

11 Dec 2024
Products Finishing Index Shows Improvement as New Orders Strengthen
Growing automotive demand and rising future expectations point to a stronger 2025.

16 Dec 2024 Ask The Expert
Combating Zinc Growth in Plating Baths
A better way to mitigate zinc growth in chloride zinc and zinc-nickel plating baths is the use of membrane anodes.

27 Dec 2024 Parts Cleaning
Know the Facts About Replacement Solvents
Learn the truth about PFAS and other harmful solvent replacement and a plan to go about making the change for a safer working environment.

8 Jan 2025
Electroless Nickel Gets a 24/7 Helpline
A new helpline developed by Surface Technology Inc. provides EN finishers with troubleshooting and technical support in real time.

13 Jan 2025 Liquid Coating
Cobot Enters Paint Industry With Safety at the Forefront
This collaborative robot is the first explosion-proof solution for the powder coating and paint arena that meets the U.S.’ stringent safety requirements. Its lead-through teach programming and tablet control are especially appealing to small shops with little proficiency in robotics.

18 Dec 2024 nasf
AESF Heritage: SUR/FIN 2000 – European Academy of Surface Technology: Copper Micro-electrodeposition: The Influence of Different Additives on Growth in Microprofiles
This is a republished paper presented during SUR/FIN 2000 in Chicago, Illinois, part of the European Academy of Sciences (EAST) Seminar.

10 Jan 2025 Electroplating
Top Shop Concentrates on Automating Processes for Automotive Plating
This well-established zinc and zinc-nickel plater covers “auto” in more than one way. Automotive jobs consist of 75-80% of this surface finisher’s work, while the team continuously seeks ways to implement automation.
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July 2024
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Webinars See All

On Demand
Elevate Your Process: Top Trends in Zinc Alloy Plating
The collaboration between Hubbard-Hall and Pavco brings together cutting-edge chemistry and extensive expertise to tackle common challenges in metal finishing, particularly for zinc (Zn) and Zn alloy plating. By leveraging the combined focus on innovation and efficiency, the team delivers practical approaches that help applicators elevate their processes, reduce costs and improve overall performance. In this webinar, the presenters will explore the synergistic effects of passivates and topcoats, revealing how they provide enhanced corrosion protection for Zn and Zn alloy plating. Together, these advances enhance the quality and durability of finishes and ensure long-term competitiveness in the marketplace. Agenda: Elevated performance Common issues addressed Innovative processes

On Demand
XRF Analysis of Materials for Fashion Jewelry and Accessories
XRF measurement of the layers is also important to assure the right color and appearance of the finished goods. Join Fischer as it discusses how XRF measurements can be used for process control, quality control and incoming inspection of electroplated jewelry pieces. Agenda: The high precision of XRF Cost-reduction benefits Getting reliable results in seconds Measuring multiple layers of plating thickness Calibrating for optimal performance

On Demand
Exploring Powder Coatings: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Any one of these three facets will help you become a stronger powder coater, but this session will walk you through all of them and provide details that will be most valuable on a quest to develop an optimal powder operation. Agenda: The good: introduction to powder coatings The bad: common challenges The ugly: debunking myths Best practices for optimal operations Case studies

On Demand
Sustainable Cleaning Solutions: Optimizing Performance and Reducing Waste
Our focus includes the use of membrane filtration systems – which can recover up to 98% of cleaning solutions – dramatically reducing the volume of concentrated waste requiring disposal. Additionally, we delve into strategies for maximizing cleaner longevity by precisely adjusting oil concentrations, leveraging the direct relationship between cleaner concentration and effective oil content management. By adopting these methods, businesses can achieve significant cost savings through reduced chemical consumption, lower waste disposal expenses and decreased energy usage – all while promoting environmental sustainability. Agenda: Membrane Filtration Systems: Learn how these systems protect industrial assets and recover a substantial percentage of cleaning solutions. Cost-Saving Strategies: Discover opportunities for savings through extended cleaner longevity and reduced chemical waste Technical Cleanliness Challenges: Understand the various challenges in achieving and maintaining technical cleanliness across processes. Establish a more sustainable and cost-efficient cleaning program that delivers superior results, reduces downtime and minimizes environmental impact

On Demand
Beyond the Surface: Maximizing Efficiency in Plating Baths Through XRF Analysis
Dive into plating bath optimization. Learn about the importance of chemistry measurement, various analysis methods and real-time monitoring benefits through X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis with insightful case studies highlighting efficiency gains. Join Fisher Technology's Devarsh Shah and Melissa Agneta as they discuss how to improve plating efficiency by exploring essential chemistry techniques, including real-life examples. Discover why measuring plating bath chemistry matters, the different ways to analyze it and the benefits of monitoring it as it happens in real-time. With XRF analysis, you'll gain the knowledge and tools to improve your plating process, thus ensuring top-notch efficiency and quality in surface finishing. Agenda: Importance of measuring plating bath chemistry Methods for analyzing bath chemistry Benefits of monitoring bath chemistry in real-time Case studies

On Demand
Mastering Wastewater Systems: Essential Insights into Maintenance, Life Span and Chemical Impact
In this high-level overview of wastewater system maintenance and upgrades, Robin Deal and Brian Greene will review the critical components required for a fully-functional system and discuss their expected life span. Learn to navigate factors such as material degradation and technological advancements, examine the effects, and address issues of chemical usage on the equipment. This webinar is designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to ensure your wastewater system remains in optimal condition, highlighting the importance of understanding both the hardware requirements and the chemical interactions that can influence system longevity and performance. By implementing proactive maintenance strategies and informed chemical management practices, you can enhance the reliability and efficiency of your wastewater infrastructure, ultimately contributing to environmental sustainability and public health protection. Agenda: Essential equipment for wastewater systems Life span considerations for wastewater systems Impact of chemical usage on wastewater equipment

On Demand
From Tradition to Tomorrow: Hubbard-Hall’s Journey with CEO Molly Kellogg Register Now
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5 Mar 2025
National Surface Finishing Day
Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD

11 Mar 2025
Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar
CCAI is offering a comprehensive Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar developed by industry experts well-versed in safety for finishing operations. This day-and-a-half seminar focuses on NFPA 33, the Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials and will deliver important and critical information on how to safely operate an industrial finishing line. Topics Covered: An introduction to safety Overview and definitions General requirements and electrostatic spray equipment Ventilation Storage handling and distribution Fire protection Operations, maintenance and training Drying and curing Liquid and powder coatings Authority Having Jurisdiction panel discussion Who Should Attend? Manufacturing, staff and environmental engineers (industrial health & safety) Lead painters Maintenance leads and personnel Finishing equipment designers System controls and project engineers Facility managers Finishing industry distributors Date: Tuesday, March 11 and Wednesday, March 12 Time: Tuesday - 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM and Wednesday 8:00 AM - Noon Location: Sames 45001 5 Mile Road Plymouth, MI 48170 Registration Fee: CCAI Members: $599 / Non-Members: $750 Registration Fee Includes: Classroom instruction; lunch on day one; a certificate of completion; and a printed copy of the NFPA 33 Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials. Registration: CLICK HERE to register. Space is limited.

1 Apr 2025
Precision Machining Technology Show (PMTS 2025)
Founded in 2001, PMTS reconvenes in April 2025 to celebrate its 13th biennial event for precision machining pros. Mark your calendar now and plan to join the precision machined parts community when we once again gather in person to share challenges and insights, see new technology solutions and learn about process innovations you can take back and immediately put into use in your own shop. The Precision Machining Technology Show is centered at the intersection of the industry's newest and most advanced product technologies, process innovations, business development prospects and personal career growth opportunities.

2 Apr 2025
Parts Cleaning Workshop
Critical Cleaning Hands-on Workshop Do it; learn it! The one-day workshop teaches how cleaning and cleanliness testing work. By participating in hands-on exercises of techniques for cleaning and cleanliness verification, attendees gain the understanding and knowledge to make practical, effective, and sustainable manufacturing decisions. While exercises are supplemented by demonstrations and tutorials, the workshop is not death by PowerPoint! Topics include aqueous, solvent, and “non-chemical” cleaning, including cleaning chemicals and cleaning processes (spray, ultrasonics, cyclic nucleation, in-line, batch). Most manufactured product and product contact surfaces require cleaning during (and sometimes after) manufacture and assembly. Examples of areas where effective cleaning is essential include: metal fabrication, product assembly, optics, electronics, microelectronics, wafer fab, medical devices, aerospace/aeronautics, military, and additive manufacturing. WHAT DO YOU CALL CLEANING? There are many different terms for cleaning. Cleaning Precision Cleaning Critical Cleaning Safety/Critical Cleaning Surface Prep for Finishing Technical Cleanliness Residue Removal WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE WORKSHOP If you or your company fabricates, finishes, maintains or repairs product or product contact surfaces (like reaction vessels), this workshop is time well-spent. If you sell chemicals or cleaning equipment, this workshop will help you better understand and optimize the market for your products. Examples include: Manufacturing Engineers Product Designers Managers Sales and Marketing Managers Facilities Personnel Assemblers, operators Process Technicians Quality Control Personnel Regulatory Affairs Experts (industry, military, and government) Safety/environmental professionals Participants will receive a PDF Certificate of Completion with continuing education credits from Sam Houston State University.

14 Apr 2025
Powder Coating Week 2025
For more than 30 years, the Powder Coating Institute has hosted an annual event that focuses on providing education for all those using powder coating and those interested in learning more about the technology. Over the years, the event has taken many forms. With a strong commitment to continuous education of the powder coating industry, PCI will again host its Powder Coating Week 2025 from April 14th – 16th in Orlando, FL. Powder Coating WEEK 2024 consists of four separate events: 1. Powder Coating 101 Workshop: Powder Coating Done Right: The Basics 2. Custom Coater Forum 3. Powder Coating Technical Conference 4. Tabletop Exhibition

7 May 2025
Women in Finishing Forum
The Women in Finishing (WiF) FORUM features a variety of professional development and industry related sessions geared toward women in our industry. Supplementing the general sessions is a finishing facility tour, networking and team building activities. Through unique programming, participants will learn new ways to deal with issues that impact effectiveness, maximize professional impact, build strategies for success, learn about the latest trends in industrial finishing, and much more. All women who have chosen or are pursuing a career in industrial finishing, from the finishing line to executive management, are invited and encouraged to attend the WiF FORUM.

19 Feb 2025 New & Upcoming
Women in Manufacturing: Men as Allies Conference Register Now
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Top Shops
Features stories and news on the adaptations of top shops, good habits, beneficial practices and successes that make a finishing shop a "Top Shop."

40 under 40
Young professionals are a vital asset to the finishing industry, and it is important to acknowledge those who are making great strides in shaping the industry's future.

Champions of the Industry
Products Finishing is proud to announce a new awards program that recognizes individuals in the industry that are making important contributions to forward the surface finishing industry.
Videos See All

26 Aug 2024 sustainability
Algae-Based Coating Enables Modular Carbon Capture Removal System
Reactive Surfaces, an innovator in bio-based coatings, works on development of Carbon Capture Coatings, which harness the natural CO2-capturing capabilities of live algae.

9 Aug 2024
Plating Automation Turns Controls Up a Notch
This Cincinnati-based plating company has experienced a 33% improvement as a result of investing in a new electroless nickel line. It continues to tweak the control technology to create the most effective coating for its customers’ needs.

22 Jul 2024 Electroplating
Episode 46: Richard Lynch, Timothy Gotsick; MacDermid Enthone Industrial Solutions
Experts from MacDermid Enthone Industrial Solutions share industry insights in an interview from the SUR/FIN 2024 finishing industry tradeshow.

24 Apr 2024 40-under-40
Videos: 40 Under 40 Class of 2024
In these uncertain times, it is refreshing to hear from and learn about young talent in the surface finishing industry who are striving to make a difference within their organizations and the industry as a whole.

8 Apr 2024 Parts Cleaning
Vacuum Degreaser Cleans Up a Messy Situation
By replacing its immersion parts washer with a vacuum degreasing system, this machine shop is much more efficient, saving the company money, man hours and the health of the operators.

2 Oct 2023 Liquid Coating
Precise Paint Flow Reduces Material and Labor Costs
Finding a more accurate paint proportioner for its application enabled this auto parts manufacturer to save significant costs and labor while increasing capacity.
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Improve Your Parts Cleaning Processes
10 Point Checklist to Improve Your Parts Cleaning Processes

Automotive Coatings
A collection of four PF features that delve into the technologies, processes and people working to provide protection for the automobiles of today.

The Case for Cleaning
Survey and analysis, with Hubbard-Hall, of Products Finishing Top Shops benchmarking attitudes and practices concerning parts cleaning.
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David S. Peterson

David S. Peterson

1 Dec 2005

Phosphating on Differing Surfaces

Question: Is a smooth surface better for phosphating or a rough one?

1 Dec 2005

Oxidation Under Paint

Question: We clean our steel parts and use a phosphating process for pretreatment.

1 Dec 2005

In Search of a Polymeric Coating

Question: I have an application that needs a 0.005-0.006-inch thick insulative coating on an aluminum sheet metal part.

1 Dec 2005

Free and Total Acid Values

Question: Can anyone tell me what is the meaning of total acid and free acid?

1 Dec 2005

Dull Polish in 440c and 420B NIMO

Question: We are ball making people.

1 Oct 2005

Passivate Stainless Steel

Question: I have been told that it is not necessary to passivate 316 S.S., but that 303 and 304 must be to provide a corrosion resistant surface.

1 Oct 2005

Gear Media

Gear Media Question: I have heard the term, “gear media” and I wonder what this is.

1 Oct 2005

Total and Free Acid Values

Question: Can anyone tell me what is the meaning of total acid and free acid?

1 Oct 2005

Passivating Brass Shell Cases after Pickling/Polishing

Question: I am running a mass finishing process that requires an aqueous passivation of the brass as a final process to help prevent corrosion.

1 Oct 2005

Cleaning Copper Parts

Question: Some of our copper parts, which have been cleaned but not protected by a chemical reagent but cased by vacuum bag, take on a bad appearance after three days.

1 Oct 2005

Vibratory Finishing

Question: Is there any rule of thumb for how many parts to put in a vibratory machine?

1 Aug 2005

Particle Counters

Question: We have seen a number of our customers switch from a washdown weight and visual particle count to a laser particle counter.

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